The 46-year-old told The Sun Online: "As far as I’m concerned, I was just doing my job.

"It seems that people think I’m perhaps going over and above but she’s just a lovely lady."

Mr Whitehead, who is a depot inspector and only drives the bus if needed, said he had met the local lady several times and had stopped twice before to help her onto the bus and make sure she got where she needed to be.

Admitting he was "pretty old school" in his manners, he said he had exchanged “banter” with the lady, who is believed to be in her 80s, whenever they crossed paths.

He said: “My dad was a bus driver and he used to do exactly the same thing.

Passenger Kevin Calvert took the snap of Ian helping the elderly passenger and hailed his act of kindness

Social media users were quick to salute driver Ian.

Tracey Hodson said: "Shame there aren't more people like him the world, it would be a better place. Bless him."

Jayne Durkin said: "Well done, there's not many bus drivers that would do this."

Laura McBeth said: "So there are some gentlemen left in the world."

Sarah Bradley said: "Communities need more lovely kind people like this man. A true gentleman."

Jimmy Colin Thomson said: "Probably get sacked now for being a good guy."

Jon Croxford, area managing director for Arriva Yorkshire, said: "Customer satisfaction is of great importance to us here at Arriva and it is fantastic to see Ian Whitehead demonstrating our values and going above and beyond to assist an elderly lady in need.

"We are grateful to our passengers for bringing this to our attention and Ian will be recognised for his act of kindness."

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